David Ferrer is one of the most decorated non-Grand Slam champions of all time with 26 ATP titles, however, his success might of never happened if it wasn’t for a pivotal moment during 2008.

During an interview with the official website of the Argentina Open, the 33-year-old has spoken about how a change in his mentality contributed to his increase in success on the tour. Despite never winning a Grand Slam title, Ferrer has won more prize money than John McEnroe and Marat Safin combined. During the interview, Ferrer explained how he changed his mentality on the court during the later part of 2008.

“After 2008 there was a change in my way of thinking and doing. I made ​​my own decisions personally and learned not to blame. That helped me to be better about myself and then to have the best years of my career”. Ferrer said.

Ferrer said that he was able to change his approach to the game after reading a series of self-help books as well as biographies. He didn’t elaborate on which particular books he read, however, the 33-year-old said they helped him deal with his emotions better.

“Perhaps by hearing other opinions: you respect and accept yourself. Understand that everything can not go the way you want. I don’t feel so terrible to lose”.

Eight years later Ferrer is still learning, despite being one of the veterans of the tour. The Spaniard explains that the advice his father gave him when he was a child, has lived with him through his career. Ferrer recalled his father saying to him when he was young ‘”David, you can do whatever you want, yes, fight until the end’.

The words from his father, her certainly paid off for Ferrer and his commitment to the tour. Apart from 26 ATP titles, the 33-year-old has also reached the quarterfinals at 17 Grand Slam tournaments, including the final of the 2013 French Open.